The Blogs: Israel's Jewish revival might not be good news for religious parties | Tani Frank

An opinion piece argues that increased Jewish identity among Israelis since October 7 does not automatically benefit religious political parties. A survey found 38% of Jewish Israelis feel closer to Judaism since the attack, rising to 60% among young people. However, 59% believe their form of Jewish identity is not reflected in state budgets. The author contends Israelis prefer community-based Jewish initiatives over centralized state religious bodies.

An opinion piece by Tani Frank argues that the surge in Jewish identity among Israelis since the October 7, 2023, massacre may not translate into electoral support for the current coalition government, which includes religious parties. The article cites a survey by Dr. Haggai Elkayam Shalem of the Shalom Hartman Institute, finding that 38% of Jewish Israelis feel closer to Judaism since October 7, with the figure rising to 60% among young people. However, 59% of respondents believe their form of Jewish identity is not reflected in state budgets and institutions. The author contends that Israelis prefer community-based Jewish initiatives over centralized state religious bodies like the Chief Rabbinate. The piece concludes that the political challenge is not about promoting Judaism but doing so in a way that expands belonging rather than enforcing conformity.